Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert
CPT UPDATE ~ Move Your Search for SRS Codes From Cat III to Cat I
Plus: CPT 2007 takes time limits off some chemo codes Good news: Instead of the two curre... Read more
Plus: CPT 2007 takes time limits off some chemo codes Good news: Instead of the two curre... Read more
Smarten Up Your 77263 Coding to Avoid an Audit Nightmare
Find out when you can report complex planning more than once per course If you report rad... Read more
Find out when you can report complex planning more than once per course If you report rad... Read more
Keep Track of Complex Clinical Treatment Planning Definitions
CPT guidelines printed with the codes explain that clinical treatment planning includes:- ... Read more
CPT guidelines printed with the codes explain that clinical treatment planning includes:- ... Read more
Get to the Bottom of Your Top-5 Critical Care Questions
A trip to the ICU doesn't always merit 99291-99292 If reporting adult critical care servi... Read more
A trip to the ICU doesn't always merit 99291-99292 If reporting adult critical care servi... Read more
Critical Care Bonus Tip 1:
'Critical' Isn't a Place
You cannot use critical care codes simply because the patient resides in an -intensive- or... Read more
'Critical' Isn't a Place
You cannot use critical care codes simply because the patient resides in an -intensive- or... Read more
Critical Care Bonus Tip 2:
Multiple-Day Care Is OK
CPT does not limit the units of critical care you may report, and even goes so far as to s... Read more
Multiple-Day Care Is OK
CPT does not limit the units of critical care you may report, and even goes so far as to s... Read more
READER QUESTION ~ Switch From Neoplasm to 'History of' Code Safely
Question:When should I start reporting a -history of- code for patients we have treated fo... Read more
Question:When should I start reporting a -history of- code for patients we have treated fo... Read more
READER QUESTION ~ Locate and Compare LCDs Here
Question: Where can I go to look up Medicare carriers- local coverage determinations? Also... Read more
Question: Where can I go to look up Medicare carriers- local coverage determinations? Also... Read more
READER QUESTION ~ Bone Up on 36430 Unit Rule
Question: If we administer three units of a blood product, should I report three units of ... Read more
Question: If we administer three units of a blood product, should I report three units of ... Read more
YOU BE THE CODER ~ Ask What ASC Can Claim for Brachytherapy
Question: I work for a surgery center that is performing its first prostate brachytherapy ... Read more
Question: I work for a surgery center that is performing its first prostate brachytherapy ... Read more
Clamp Down on Incident-to Errors in Your Chemo Admin Claims
Master the rules of this OIG hot buttonDon't let the tricky nature of -incident-to- claims... Read more
Master the rules of this OIG hot buttonDon't let the tricky nature of -incident-to- claims... Read more
Are You Reporting the Wrong Services as Incident-To?
CMS may think so -- find out what the correct services are If you-re reporting... Read more
CMS may think so -- find out what the correct services are If you-re reporting... Read more
E/M 101:
Conquer the New/Established Patient Challenge
Do you know all the 3-year rule details? You may think that deciding whether you have a n... Read more
Conquer the New/Established Patient Challenge
Do you know all the 3-year rule details? You may think that deciding whether you have a n... Read more
NCCI Update:
Double-Check Your Digits ~ Version 12.3 Adds 2,865 Edits
These changes make it more likely that payers will catch your mistakes You-d need roughly... Read more
Double-Check Your Digits ~ Version 12.3 Adds 2,865 Edits
These changes make it more likely that payers will catch your mistakes You-d need roughly... Read more
Clip and Save ~ Master Pancreatic Anatomy From Head to Tail
Study up on pancreatic cancer codes during November, National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness ... Read more
Study up on pancreatic cancer codes during November, National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness ... Read more
Reader Question ~ Don't Expect Dx Code to Show Right, Left
Question: If a patient has breast cancer in both her breasts, is there a way to indicate t... Read more
Question: If a patient has breast cancer in both her breasts, is there a way to indicate t... Read more
Reader Question ~ Stick With 77280 for Opposing Ports
Question: Which CPT code should I use for simulation done for a single area of malignancy ... Read more
Question: Which CPT code should I use for simulation done for a single area of malignancy ... Read more
Reader Question ~ Pick 90772 for Procrit Admin
Question: Many of our patients become anemic following chemotherapy administration. During... Read more
Question: Many of our patients become anemic following chemotherapy administration. During... Read more
Knock Out Breast Neoplasm Blunders As Easy As 1, 2, 3
Get your coding up to snuff during October, National Breast Cancer Awareness MonthQuick qu... Read more
Get your coding up to snuff during October, National Breast Cancer Awareness MonthQuick qu... Read more
Diagnosis Red Alert:
Time's Up! Start Using ICD-9 2007 on Oct. 1
Don't miss these neoplasm inclusion and exclusion term changesYou may not switch out your ... Read more
Time's Up! Start Using ICD-9 2007 on Oct. 1
Don't miss these neoplasm inclusion and exclusion term changesYou may not switch out your ... Read more
NPI Update:
Smooth Your Transition To Revised CMS-1500
Ring out the old and ring in the new. CMS-1500, that is. CMS is paving the way for you to ... Read more
Smooth Your Transition To Revised CMS-1500
Ring out the old and ring in the new. CMS-1500, that is. CMS is paving the way for you to ... Read more
E/M Corner:
Rate Your Review-of-Systems Skills With This Scenario
Can a nurse's notes make a difference in the final equation?You can't always count on E/M ... Read more
Rate Your Review-of-Systems Skills With This Scenario
Can a nurse's notes make a difference in the final equation?You can't always count on E/M ... Read more
Drug Reimbursement:
Tighten Your Belt--Carboplatin Pay May Dive
But CMS is fighting the cut Medicare's Neulasta reimbursement may not cover your ... Read more
Tighten Your Belt--Carboplatin Pay May Dive
But CMS is fighting the cut Medicare's Neulasta reimbursement may not cover your ... Read more
Check Out TrailBlazer's Chemotherapy Resource
Add this link to your list of favorite Web sitesGood news if you send chemo claims to Trai... Read more
Add this link to your list of favorite Web sitesGood news if you send chemo claims to Trai... Read more
E/M Corner Answer:
Rate Your Review-of-Systems Skills With This Scenario
Now that you-ve given the ROS question your best shot, see what our expert has to say. An... Read more
Rate Your Review-of-Systems Skills With This Scenario
Now that you-ve given the ROS question your best shot, see what our expert has to say. An... Read more
RVU Ups and Downs:
Prepare for This Proposed Radiation Pay Boost
Nuclear medicine doesn't fare as wellCMS has RVU changes in the works. Oncology practices ... Read more
Prepare for This Proposed Radiation Pay Boost
Nuclear medicine doesn't fare as wellCMS has RVU changes in the works. Oncology practices ... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Ask for 'Low Malignant Potential' Tumor Definition
Question: The pathology report came back as -Serous tumor of low malignant potential (atyp... Read more
Ask for 'Low Malignant Potential' Tumor Definition
Question: The pathology report came back as -Serous tumor of low malignant potential (atyp... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Pinpoint Place-of-Service Rules
Question: I enjoyed the August article on hospice care but was confused by the explanation... Read more
Pinpoint Place-of-Service Rules
Question: I enjoyed the August article on hospice care but was confused by the explanation... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Start the Countdown to Combined Contractors
Question: I heard that the switch to combined Part A/Part B Medicare contractors will make... Read more
Start the Countdown to Combined Contractors
Question: I heard that the switch to combined Part A/Part B Medicare contractors will make... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Watch Units for 88368
Question: We have an on-site lab and use the Vysis FISH probe kit to aid in monitoring bla... Read more
Watch Units for 88368
Question: We have an on-site lab and use the Vysis FISH probe kit to aid in monitoring bla... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Prepare to Code Palliative Treatment
Question: Which diagnosis codes should we use when a patient presents for external beam ra... Read more
Prepare to Code Palliative Treatment
Question: Which diagnosis codes should we use when a patient presents for external beam ra... Read more
Solve Your Uterine Cancer ICD-9 Troubles
In tip 3, find out why 233.2 claims demand a second look Uterine cancer is the most commo... Read more
In tip 3, find out why 233.2 claims demand a second look Uterine cancer is the most commo... Read more
News You Can Use:
Will CMS Declare This $500,000 Procedure Noncovered?
Noridian wants BBBD chemo NCD If your oncologists use blood brain barrier disruption (BBB... Read more
Will CMS Declare This $500,000 Procedure Noncovered?
Noridian wants BBBD chemo NCD If your oncologists use blood brain barrier disruption (BBB... Read more
Demonstration Project Update:
Apply These New Code Descriptors Today
3 disease status codes get a facelift Just when you thought you had 2006 oncology demonst... Read more
Apply These New Code Descriptors Today
3 disease status codes get a facelift Just when you thought you had 2006 oncology demonst... Read more
Master MDM to Steer Clear Of Payer Paybacks
Fight the urge to code higher based on personal knowledge of the patient CMS plans to rai... Read more
Fight the urge to code higher based on personal knowledge of the patient CMS plans to rai... Read more
Clip and Save:
Add Up MDM Points for Cleaner E/M Claims
Don't forget to check the table of risk before you code Get out your calculators -- codin... Read more
Add Up MDM Points for Cleaner E/M Claims
Don't forget to check the table of risk before you code Get out your calculators -- codin... Read more
Reader Questions:
Inject 25 Into Some 90772 Claims
Question: We recently received a denial for 90772 from Medicare when we reported it with a... Read more
Inject 25 Into Some 90772 Claims
Question: We recently received a denial for 90772 from Medicare when we reported it with a... Read more
Reader Questions:
Set Aside Melanoma In Situ Search
Question: My documentation shows -malignant melanoma in-situ,- diagnosed from a knee punch... Read more
Set Aside Melanoma In Situ Search
Question: My documentation shows -malignant melanoma in-situ,- diagnosed from a knee punch... Read more
Reader Questions:
Send Tobacco Counseling Questions Up in Smoke
Question: I read -Put an End to Tobacco Cessation Questions- in the July issue, which says... Read more
Send Tobacco Counseling Questions Up in Smoke
Question: I read -Put an End to Tobacco Cessation Questions- in the July issue, which says... Read more
Reader Questions:
Stop Hunting for Rx Code
Question: Is there a code I can report when a patient just comes in to pick up a prescript... Read more
Stop Hunting for Rx Code
Question: Is there a code I can report when a patient just comes in to pick up a prescript... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Rate Your Radiation Treatment CPT Skills
Question: The oncologist orders two complex radiation treatments eight hours apart on the ... Read more
Rate Your Radiation Treatment CPT Skills
Question: The oncologist orders two complex radiation treatments eight hours apart on the ... Read more
Don't Wait for Denials to Alert You to SRS Coding Changes
Get a sneak peek at what's coming down the CPT pike The rules for coding stereotactic rad... Read more
Get a sneak peek at what's coming down the CPT pike The rules for coding stereotactic rad... Read more
Stereotactic Radiosurgery:
Set Yourself Up for SRS Coding Success
Bonus: This commonly overlooked code is worth more than $100 The National Correct Coding ... Read more
Set Yourself Up for SRS Coding Success
Bonus: This commonly overlooked code is worth more than $100 The National Correct Coding ... Read more
Try 4 Modifiers to Prevent Hospice Coding Headaches
Choose between GV and GW to end your reimbursement woes Carriers may make you jump throug... Read more
Choose between GV and GW to end your reimbursement woes Carriers may make you jump throug... Read more
CPT Update:
Prepare for Possible PICC Blood Draw Codes
In the meantime, avoid 36415 mistakes with this tip New oncology codes may be coming your... Read more
Prepare for Possible PICC Blood Draw Codes
In the meantime, avoid 36415 mistakes with this tip New oncology codes may be coming your... Read more
Claim 6 Units of J2505? A Denial's on Its Way
Avoid this common pegfilgrastim reporting pitfall Be prepared for any six-unit J2505 clai... Read more
Avoid this common pegfilgrastim reporting pitfall Be prepared for any six-unit J2505 clai... Read more
Reader Questions:
Seek These Complex-Sim Requirements
Question: What exactly constitutes complex simulation, and how should we report it?Califor... Read more
Seek These Complex-Sim Requirements
Question: What exactly constitutes complex simulation, and how should we report it?Califor... Read more
Reader Questions:
Report 90649 for HPV Vaccine
Question: Our multi-specialty clinic may start offering the HPV vaccine soon. What code sh... Read more
Report 90649 for HPV Vaccine
Question: Our multi-specialty clinic may start offering the HPV vaccine soon. What code sh... Read more
Reader Questions:
Keep 96523 for Irrigation-Only Days
Question: I-ve heard that I should report port flush code 96523 along with transfusion cod... Read more
Keep 96523 for Irrigation-Only Days
Question: I-ve heard that I should report port flush code 96523 along with transfusion cod... Read more
Reader Questions:
Trust 96416 for First Pump Treatment
Question: What chemo administration code should I use for the date that we start treatment... Read more
Trust 96416 for First Pump Treatment
Question: What chemo administration code should I use for the date that we start treatment... Read more
Reader Questions:
Turn to the HCPCS Table of Drugs
Question: What HCPCS code should I use for Reglan 10 mg?Delaware Subscriber Answer: The p... Read more
Turn to the HCPCS Table of Drugs
Question: What HCPCS code should I use for Reglan 10 mg?Delaware Subscriber Answer: The p... Read more
Reader Questions:
Research Codes for Unlisted Drugs
Question: How can I find the code for a new drug, such as Orencia?Texas Subscriber Answer... Read more
Research Codes for Unlisted Drugs
Question: How can I find the code for a new drug, such as Orencia?Texas Subscriber Answer... Read more
Reader Questions:
Check Discharge Date for Observation Code
Question: How should I report observation care codes if my physician admits a patient for ... Read more
Check Discharge Date for Observation Code
Question: How should I report observation care codes if my physician admits a patient for ... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Read PICC Documentation Details Closely
Question: Which codes should I use to report radiologic imaging for PICC line placement?So... Read more
Read PICC Documentation Details Closely
Question: Which codes should I use to report radiologic imaging for PICC line placement?So... Read more
Plump Up Your Ambulatory Pump Pay -- Easy as 1, 2, 3
Prepare early to defeat J9190 denialsTired of being put through the wringer when it comes ... Read more
Prepare early to defeat J9190 denialsTired of being put through the wringer when it comes ... Read more
Study Pump Reporting Rules To Prevent a Deskful of Denials
Team up with your staff for best resultsResearch is crucial before you enter the confusing... Read more
Team up with your staff for best resultsResearch is crucial before you enter the confusing... Read more
ICD-9 Update:
Don't Miss This New Neoplasm-Related Pain Code
Start mastering the 2007 codes nowYou can stop using -unspecified- diagnosis codes for sev... Read more
Don't Miss This New Neoplasm-Related Pain Code
Start mastering the 2007 codes nowYou can stop using -unspecified- diagnosis codes for sev... Read more
Put an End to Tobacco Cessation Questions
Don't let your G0375-G0376 pay go up in smokeTobacco-use counseling can benefit lung-cance... Read more
Don't let your G0375-G0376 pay go up in smokeTobacco-use counseling can benefit lung-cance... Read more
Reader Questions:
Limit Your 96523 Use
Question: As I understand it, a port flush 96523 is not charged in conjunction with a subc... Read more
Limit Your 96523 Use
Question: As I understand it, a port flush 96523 is not charged in conjunction with a subc... Read more
Reader Questions:
Avoid Anemia Coding Errors
Question: I-ve been reporting the neoplasm diagnosis code along with V58.11 for chemothera... Read more
Avoid Anemia Coding Errors
Question: I-ve been reporting the neoplasm diagnosis code along with V58.11 for chemothera... Read more
Reader Questions:
Substantiate Modifier 25 Claim 3 Ways
Question: I heard that we should use two-entry documentation for encounters that involve a... Read more
Substantiate Modifier 25 Claim 3 Ways
Question: I heard that we should use two-entry documentation for encounters that involve a... Read more
Reader Questions:
Include Team Meeting With Nursing Facility E/M
Question: After completing subsequent nursing facility care for a patient recently, I met ... Read more
Include Team Meeting With Nursing Facility E/M
Question: After completing subsequent nursing facility care for a patient recently, I met ... Read more
Reader Questions:
Find Out Reason for Follow-Up Switch
Question: Does the 90-day global period apply when a self-referred patient continues follo... Read more
Find Out Reason for Follow-Up Switch
Question: Does the 90-day global period apply when a self-referred patient continues follo... Read more
Reader Questions:
Consider Category II Codes a Future Investment
Question: I-m confused about whether I should report Category II CPT codes. Would you plea... Read more
Consider Category II Codes a Future Investment
Question: I-m confused about whether I should report Category II CPT codes. Would you plea... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Think Through the 30-Minute Rule
Question: Should I apply the 30-minute rule to initial infusions? Wisconsin Subscriber Ans... Read more
Think Through the 30-Minute Rule
Question: Should I apply the 30-minute rule to initial infusions? Wisconsin Subscriber Ans... Read more
Brachytherapy 101:
Break Down HDR Code Descriptors for Clean Claims Every Time
With more than $900 possible per procedure, keeping these codes straight is crucialCan't k... Read more
Break Down HDR Code Descriptors for Clean Claims Every Time
With more than $900 possible per procedure, keeping these codes straight is crucialCan't k... Read more
Brachytherapy Tip:
Earn Extra Bucks Knowing When to Report Q3001
Have invoices ready to go when your payers askYou need to know whether each brachytherapy ... Read more
Earn Extra Bucks Knowing When to Report Q3001
Have invoices ready to go when your payers askYou need to know whether each brachytherapy ... Read more
E/M Update:
Solve 90772 Denial Dilemma With Modifier 25
But only if the oncologist provides a truly separate E/MAdding modifier 25 to your 2006 in... Read more
Solve 90772 Denial Dilemma With Modifier 25
But only if the oncologist provides a truly separate E/MAdding modifier 25 to your 2006 in... Read more
Coding Quiz:
Ignoring V Codes Affects Patient Insurance Eligibility
Master 'history of' codes before National Cancer Survivor's Day on June 4If you think V co... Read more
Ignoring V Codes Affects Patient Insurance Eligibility
Master 'history of' codes before National Cancer Survivor's Day on June 4If you think V co... Read more
News You Can Use:
Don't Miss Your Chance for Eloxitan Coverage
Plus: The NPI revolution forces a CMS-1500 updateCMS has a duo of announcements that ... Read more
Don't Miss Your Chance for Eloxitan Coverage
Plus: The NPI revolution forces a CMS-1500 updateCMS has a duo of announcements that ... Read more
Clip-and-Save Tool:
Stop Wasting Time Searching for Chemo Codes
Find the answer fast with this at-a-glance chartWe-ve rounded up the most common chemother... Read more
Stop Wasting Time Searching for Chemo Codes
Find the answer fast with this at-a-glance chartWe-ve rounded up the most common chemother... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Pick 96445 for Intra-Peritoneal Chemo
Question: What code should I report for intra-peritoneal chemo infusions? We don't perform... Read more
Pick 96445 for Intra-Peritoneal Chemo
Question: What code should I report for intra-peritoneal chemo infusions? We don't perform... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Keep Up With Concurrent Infusion Rules
Question: I heard that I should only report 90768 when the physician infuses a chemo drug ... Read more
Keep Up With Concurrent Infusion Rules
Question: I heard that I should only report 90768 when the physician infuses a chemo drug ... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Don't Assume Supervision Level 09
Question: Can you explain the -physician supervision of diagnostic services- Medicare Fee ... Read more
Don't Assume Supervision Level 09
Question: Can you explain the -physician supervision of diagnostic services- Medicare Fee ... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Pay Attention to Port film Descriptor
Question: I-ve always billed 77417 per the number of films taken (2, 3, 4) but I recently ... Read more
Pay Attention to Port film Descriptor
Question: I-ve always billed 77417 per the number of films taken (2, 3, 4) but I recently ... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Ponder Proper Piggyback Codes
Question: If the patient receives an infusion of Zofran over 30 minutes and then there is ... Read more
Ponder Proper Piggyback Codes
Question: If the patient receives an infusion of Zofran over 30 minutes and then there is ... Read more
Meet the Melanoma Consult Coding Challenge
Sharing the inpatient consult with an NPP could result in a 15 percent reimbursement cutTh... Read more
Sharing the inpatient consult with an NPP could result in a 15 percent reimbursement cutTh... Read more
Master the Ins and Outs of Ovarian Cancer ICD-9 Coding
Caution: Don't base your diagnosis code on demonstration-project eligibilityGoo... Read more
Caution: Don't base your diagnosis code on demonstration-project eligibilityGoo... Read more
NCCI 12.1 Update:
Keep an Eye Out for These Moderate Sedation Edits
Careful: Your coding may not need to changeIf you-ve been reporting non-chemotherapy ... Read more
Keep an Eye Out for These Moderate Sedation Edits
Careful: Your coding may not need to changeIf you-ve been reporting non-chemotherapy ... Read more
Have Demonstration-Project Questions:
Take a Number
ASCO and CMS tackle your most common project queriesDemonstration-project coordinators hea... Read more
Take a Number
ASCO and CMS tackle your most common project queriesDemonstration-project coordinators hea... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Make Use of V Codes for Mutations
Question: What diagnosis code should I report for a heterozygous MTHFR gene mutation?Georg... Read more
Make Use of V Codes for Mutations
Question: What diagnosis code should I report for a heterozygous MTHFR gene mutation?Georg... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Set Treated Secondary Neoplasm in Primary Spot
Question: If colon cancer metastasizes to the brain and the patient presents for treatment... Read more
Set Treated Secondary Neoplasm in Primary Spot
Question: If colon cancer metastasizes to the brain and the patient presents for treatment... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Bite the Bullet--Report Only Highest Level Block
Question: May I report the professional component of 77333 for a bite block?Illinois Subsc... Read more
Bite the Bullet--Report Only Highest Level Block
Question: May I report the professional component of 77333 for a bite block?Illinois Subsc... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Assign 36511-36516 for Apheresis
Question: We-ve recently begun performing apheresis for leukemia patients. How should we c... Read more
Assign 36511-36516 for Apheresis
Question: We-ve recently begun performing apheresis for leukemia patients. How should we c... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Shed Light on Photodynamic Therapy Coverage
Question: Our oncologist recently started performing photodynamic therapy for esophageal c... Read more
Shed Light on Photodynamic Therapy Coverage
Question: Our oncologist recently started performing photodynamic therapy for esophageal c... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Include Admin and Removal in 36550
Question: Does 36550 include the removal of Activase as well as the administration? The pa... Read more
Include Admin and Removal in 36550
Question: Does 36550 include the removal of Activase as well as the administration? The pa... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Count Calls Toward E/M--Sometimes
Question: If my oncologist talks to a patient on the phone and communicates medical decisi... Read more
Count Calls Toward E/M--Sometimes
Question: If my oncologist talks to a patient on the phone and communicates medical decisi... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Put ICD-10 Expectations on Ice
Question: Some of the coders in our oncology office have been talking about ICD-10. Are we... Read more
Put ICD-10 Expectations on Ice
Question: Some of the coders in our oncology office have been talking about ICD-10. Are we... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Dig for More Info Than 'Left Arm Mass'
Question: What's the appropriate diagnosis code for -left arm mass-?Oklahoma Subscriber A... Read more
Dig for More Info Than 'Left Arm Mass'
Question: What's the appropriate diagnosis code for -left arm mass-?Oklahoma Subscriber A... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Don't Mix up Hydration and Infusion
Question: How should I code for an infusion of Dexamethasone (20 minutes) and two subseque... Read more
Don't Mix up Hydration and Infusion
Question: How should I code for an infusion of Dexamethasone (20 minutes) and two subseque... Read more
Cover All of Your Head and Neck Cancer Coding Bases
You may need to apply new-for-2006 demonstration project and neutron treatment codesApril ... Read more
You may need to apply new-for-2006 demonstration project and neutron treatment codesApril ... Read more
Focus on the Details to Choose Between 99213 and 99214
Never assume certain cancer diagnoses merit high-level E/MsYou-re more likely to report CP... Read more
Never assume certain cancer diagnoses merit high-level E/MsYou-re more likely to report CP... Read more
Keep Track of These Common Head and Neck Chemo Codes
Speed up your coding with this list of 'most likely' HCPCS codesOncologists often treat he... Read more
Speed up your coding with this list of 'most likely' HCPCS codesOncologists often treat he... Read more
Watch Counseling Time to Boost Your E/M Choice
Forgetting the 50 percent rule shortchanges your practiceDowncoding a 99214 service to a 9... Read more
Forgetting the 50 percent rule shortchanges your practiceDowncoding a 99214 service to a 9... Read more
Don't Skimp on CMS 1500 Item 21
Your carrier's workload will soon get a little heavierFor diagnosis codes, more may be bet... Read more
Your carrier's workload will soon get a little heavierFor diagnosis codes, more may be bet... Read more
Simplify Testicular Neoplasm Diagnosis Coding With This Table
For primary neoplasms, don't forget to differentiate between descended and undescended tes... Read more
For primary neoplasms, don't forget to differentiate between descended and undescended tes... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Prevent Phlebotomy Coding Flubs
Question: We reported 99195 (Phlebotomy, therapeutic [separate procedure]) for a blood sam... Read more
Prevent Phlebotomy Coding Flubs
Question: We reported 99195 (Phlebotomy, therapeutic [separate procedure]) for a blood sam... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Choose 99241-99245 for Observation Stay Consult
Question: How should I code a consult my physician performed for a patient admitted for an... Read more
Choose 99241-99245 for Observation Stay Consult
Question: How should I code a consult my physician performed for a patient admitted for an... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Watch for When G0364 Is Appropriate
Question: Can I report both a bone marrow aspiration and a biopsy performed at the s... Read more
Watch for When G0364 Is Appropriate
Question: Can I report both a bone marrow aspiration and a biopsy performed at the s... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Ask Payer Before Reporting After-Hours Codes
Question: Should we report after-hours codes for oncology services we provide after normal... Read more
Ask Payer Before Reporting After-Hours Codes
Question: Should we report after-hours codes for oncology services we provide after normal... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Tackle Second-Opinion Troubles
Question: A local oncologist (not in our practice) recommended IMRT for his patient. But b... Read more
Tackle Second-Opinion Troubles
Question: A local oncologist (not in our practice) recommended IMRT for his patient. But b... Read more
Take Charge of Your Colorectal Cancer Claims With Help From These 2 Scenarios
Red flag: Reporting 96415 for a 90-minute infusion will land you in hot water Don'... Read more
Red flag: Reporting 96415 for a 90-minute infusion will land you in hot water Don'... Read more
Steer Clear of Modifier 25 and 59 Chemo Claim Audits
Plus: Bone marrow biopsy codes are potential OIG targets After a disappointing survey of ... Read more
Plus: Bone marrow biopsy codes are potential OIG targets After a disappointing survey of ... Read more
Blaze Through Demonstration Project Coding With 5 Tips
Flowsheets may become your new best friend The 2006 Demonstration Project offers up cash ... Read more
Flowsheets may become your new best friend The 2006 Demonstration Project offers up cash ... Read more
Time Saver:
Check Your Chart Against the Demonstration Project Rules
Watch out: Nurse practitioners are not eligible Before you spend time reporting the 2006 ... Read more
Check Your Chart Against the Demonstration Project Rules
Watch out: Nurse practitioners are not eligible Before you spend time reporting the 2006 ... Read more
Clip and Save:
End Your CMS Web Site Frustration With This List of Links
Keep on top of the demonstration project by noting Medlearn Matters- change of address Th... Read more
End Your CMS Web Site Frustration With This List of Links
Keep on top of the demonstration project by noting Medlearn Matters- change of address Th... Read more
Reader Questions:
Know When 96401-96549 Apply
Question: May I report chemotherapy administration codes for any diagnoses other than canc... Read more
Know When 96401-96549 Apply
Question: May I report chemotherapy administration codes for any diagnoses other than canc... Read more
Reader Questions:
Check Edits Before Reporting 3D Codes
Question: When I report 3D simulated field setting (77295), do I need to report one of the... Read more
Check Edits Before Reporting 3D Codes
Question: When I report 3D simulated field setting (77295), do I need to report one of the... Read more
Reader Questions:
Question Use of QV and QR
Question: The new oncology demonstration project includes a code for clinical trials. Do I... Read more
Question Use of QV and QR
Question: The new oncology demonstration project includes a code for clinical trials. Do I... Read more
Reader Questions:
Code Services Completed Before Patient Took Off
Question: Can I submit a claim for an oncology patient who undergoes treatment planning bu... Read more
Code Services Completed Before Patient Took Off
Question: Can I submit a claim for an oncology patient who undergoes treatment planning bu... Read more
Reader Questions:
Consider Concurrent Infusion Codes
Question: How should I report multiple non- chemotherapy substances infused at the same ti... Read more
Consider Concurrent Infusion Codes
Question: How should I report multiple non- chemotherapy substances infused at the same ti... Read more
Reader Questions:
Handle 77790 Coding Wisely
Question: What's included in code 77790?Texas Subscriber Answer: Code 77790 (Supervision,... Read more
Handle 77790 Coding Wisely
Question: What's included in code 77790?Texas Subscriber Answer: Code 77790 (Supervision,... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Watch When to Code Hydration
Question: Can I code for hydration if it takes place at the same time as other medicines? ... Read more
Watch When to Code Hydration
Question: Can I code for hydration if it takes place at the same time as other medicines? ... Read more
Clean Up Your 2006 Oncology Demonstration Project Claims
Master CMS- long list of project G codes and earn an extra $23 per encounter Oncology prac... Read more
Master CMS- long list of project G codes and earn an extra $23 per encounter Oncology prac... Read more
Read the Fine Print on Revised FOBT Code
Use 82270 only for at-home testsRed flag: Many coders are reporting fecal occult blood tes... Read more
Use 82270 only for at-home testsRed flag: Many coders are reporting fecal occult blood tes... Read more
Pump Up Your ICD-9 Anemia Coding Skills
Official guidelines add some important changes effective Dec. 1Quick quiz: Should you repo... Read more
Official guidelines add some important changes effective Dec. 1Quick quiz: Should you repo... Read more
Check Out the New V58.6x And V84.x Guidelines
Follow these new drug use and genetic susceptibility coding rulesHere's a peek at some new... Read more
Follow these new drug use and genetic susceptibility coding rulesHere's a peek at some new... Read more
Implement These 2 IVIG Rules For 2006
Throw out the old Q codes and bring in the new J codes There's nothing simple about IVIG ... Read more
Throw out the old Q codes and bring in the new J codes There's nothing simple about IVIG ... Read more
Smoking Cessation Counseling:
Count on CWF for Beneficiary Coverage on April 1
Provider access will simplify dealing with frequency limitationsBeginning April 1, 2006, y... Read more
Count on CWF for Beneficiary Coverage on April 1
Provider access will simplify dealing with frequency limitationsBeginning April 1, 2006, y... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Base Management Code on Sessions, Not Time
Question: Some of our patients receive only two fractions per week, but have an increased ... Read more
Base Management Code on Sessions, Not Time
Question: Some of our patients receive only two fractions per week, but have an increased ... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Verify Need for Second E/M
Question: If the radiation oncologist performs a new patient E/M on a patient, is it OK to... Read more
Verify Need for Second E/M
Question: If the radiation oncologist performs a new patient E/M on a patient, is it OK to... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Look at Calendar for Locum Tenens
Question: Is it true that a locum tenens may only serve as a locum tenens for 60 days unde... Read more
Look at Calendar for Locum Tenens
Question: Is it true that a locum tenens may only serve as a locum tenens for 60 days unde... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Prep Unlisted-Procedure Paperwork for Planning CT
Question: What codes should I use for CT slices fused with PET obtained for treatment plan... Read more
Prep Unlisted-Procedure Paperwork for Planning CT
Question: What codes should I use for CT slices fused with PET obtained for treatment plan... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Get a Taste of Xerostomia Diagnosis Codes
Question: Our head and neck cancer patients often have dry mouth due to radiation treatmen... Read more
Get a Taste of Xerostomia Diagnosis Codes
Question: Our head and neck cancer patients often have dry mouth due to radiation treatmen... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Conquer Chemotherapy Coding
Question: What are the proper codes for the following scenario? A patient scheduled f... Read more
Conquer Chemotherapy Coding
Question: What are the proper codes for the following scenario? A patient scheduled f... Read more
Zip Through Zevalin Coding With This HCPCS Code Update
Radiopharmaceuticals get a makeover in 2006Locate your HCPCS manual before coding radiopha... Read more
Radiopharmaceuticals get a makeover in 2006Locate your HCPCS manual before coding radiopha... Read more
Abide by Payer Guidelines for 78804 and 79403
Don't expect payment if your patient's condition fails to meet specific criteriaIf the onc... Read more
Don't expect payment if your patient's condition fails to meet specific criteriaIf the onc... Read more
News You Can Use:
Cash in on CA-125 for PPC Patients
CMS now covers peritoneum neoplasm diagnosis codes for tumor antigen by immunoassayCMS ann... Read more
Cash in on CA-125 for PPC Patients
CMS now covers peritoneum neoplasm diagnosis codes for tumor antigen by immunoassayCMS ann... Read more
Take Your 99211 Coding Up a Notch
Experts answer 3 common questions for this troublesome E/M codeCPT offers code 99211 for e... Read more
Experts answer 3 common questions for this troublesome E/M codeCPT offers code 99211 for e... Read more
Verify Patient's 'Established' Status Before Choosing 99211
A recent CMS transmittal clarifies a few of your E/M questionsThe descriptor for 99211 tel... Read more
A recent CMS transmittal clarifies a few of your E/M questionsThe descriptor for 99211 tel... Read more
Chuck Your Old Prescription Antiemetic Codes
2006 HCPCS update includes new NOS codesAvoid slipping up on your antiemetic coding by sor... Read more
2006 HCPCS update includes new NOS codesAvoid slipping up on your antiemetic coding by sor... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Apply These Dx Codes to Your Claim
Question: If a patient presents with chemotherapy-induced anemia, what diagnosis codes sho... Read more
Apply These Dx Codes to Your Claim
Question: If a patient presents with chemotherapy-induced anemia, what diagnosis codes sho... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Expect to Pay for Pamphlets Yourself
Question: We offer patients materials on lifestyle changes they can make to improve their ... Read more
Expect to Pay for Pamphlets Yourself
Question: We offer patients materials on lifestyle changes they can make to improve their ... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Count Critical Care Minutes Carefully
Question: If the oncologist uses radiation treatment to help a patient presenting with cor... Read more
Count Critical Care Minutes Carefully
Question: If the oncologist uses radiation treatment to help a patient presenting with cor... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Risk Denials With Wrong Colorectal Code
Question: Which family history and personal history ICD-9 codes prove medical necessity fo... Read more
Risk Denials With Wrong Colorectal Code
Question: Which family history and personal history ICD-9 codes prove medical necessity fo... Read more
READER QUESTIONS:
Include 77295 IMRT Plan Code
Question: May I report IMRT code 77301 with 77295?Washington Subscriber Answer: Generally... Read more
Include 77295 IMRT Plan Code
Question: May I report IMRT code 77301 with 77295?Washington Subscriber Answer: Generally... Read more
You Be the Coder:
Decide Proper Declotting Code
Question: If I report one of the chemotherapy administration codes (96401-96549), can I se... Read more
Decide Proper Declotting Code
Question: If I report one of the chemotherapy administration codes (96401-96549), can I se... Read more